PORTLAND, Ore. — A federal jury in Portland has found Hugo Gomez-Soto, 51, a Honduran national unlawfully residing in Oregon, guilty of distributing fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose of a Portland man.
“This case highlights the devastating toll of fentanyl in our community. Fentanyl claims too many lives and leaves families heartbroken,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “We remain committed to fighting this epidemic and holding fentanyl traffickers in Oregon accountable.”
According to evidence presented at trial, Gomez-Soto sold illicit fentanyl in both powder form and counterfeit pills to a 29-year-old man living in southwest Portland. The victim overdosed the following day, dying within moments of using the drug despite life-saving efforts by individuals at the scene, including the administration of Narcan.
Authorities arrested Gomez-Soto on Jan. 25, 2024, on state charges. At the time, he was found in possession of fentanyl powder and counterfeit pills containing the synthetic opioid.
A federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment against Gomez-Soto on June 18, 2025, charging him with distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Gomez-Soto now faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 10, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.
The case was investigated by the Portland Police Bureau Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit and Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott M. Kerin and Nicole Bockelman.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is significantly more potent than morphine or heroin. Even a small amount—approximately two milligrams—can be lethal. Its widespread availability in Oregon has contributed to a sharp rise in overdose deaths across the state.
Officials encourage anyone facing an emergency to call 911. Those struggling with addiction or seeking support can contact Lines for Life at 1-800-923-4357 or visit their website for 24/7 assistance.
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